Custodian Lead

indianapoliszoo; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking a Custodian Lead within Park Operations to guide the Custodial Team, train staff, and oversee daily cleaning priorities. This hands-on role combines leadership with practical custodial duties to keep buildings and grounds well maintained.

You will take lead in the absence of management, support events, and ensure tasks are completed on schedule while adhering to safety and sanitation standards. Applicants must be at least 18 and hold a valid Indiana license.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or GED.
• Experience in custodial, housekeeping, or related roles preferred.
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities; able to supervise staff and volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily tasks performed by Custodial staff.
• Assist with training and directing seasonal employees and volunteers.
• Participate in weekly rounds to identify cleaning and maintenance needs.
• Assist with cleaning and stocking restrooms, pathways, food service areas, benches, trash cans, and other Zoo spaces.
• Provide operational support for events and snow removal.
• Occasionally serve as event contact outside normal Zoo hours.
• Follow all safety, sanitation, chemical handling, and operational procedures.
• Lead responsibilities in the absence of management.

Skills

Leadership

Custodial experience

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

As part of our Park Operations team, the Custodian Lead supports the day-to-day operations of the Custodial Team. In this role, you'll assist with guiding and training team members, monitoring daily work, supporting special events, and helping the Park Operations management team keep things running smoothly.

About the Role

The Custodian Lead assists the Park Operations management team with the day-to-day guidance and training of department staff while also participating in the cleaning and upkeep of Zoo buildings and grounds.

This is an active, hands-on position that combines custodial responsibilities with leadership and operational support. When management staff are unavailable, the Custodian Lead assumes lead responsibilities for the department and helps ensure daily tasks and priorities are completed.

Key Responsibilities

• Help oversee daily tasks performed by Custodial staff.
• Assist with training staff and providing direction to seasonal employees and volunteers.
• Participate in weekly rounds to identify cleaning and maintenance needs.
• Assist with cleaning and stocking restrooms, pathways, food service areas, benches, trash cans, and other Zoo spaces.
• Provide operational support for events, including CATZ, ZooBoo, Zoobilation, and snow removal.
• Occasionally serve as the event contact for morning and evening events outside normal Zoo operating hours.
• Follow all Zoo safety, sanitation, chemical handling, and operational procedures.
• Assume lead responsibilities in the absence of management staff.

What We're Looking For

• High school diploma or GED required.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid Indiana driver's license and insurable driving record.
• Custodial, housekeeping, or related experience preferred.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work a 40-hour schedule, including weekends, holidays, overtime, and varying shifts as needed.
• Ability to occasionally work morning or evening events outside normal Zoo operating hours.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Ability to remain active throughout the workday and safely handle items weighing up to 100 pounds.

Why Join Us?

As a member of the Park Operations team, you'll help create a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for our guests while supporting the people who keep our facilities running smoothly.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.